Kawasaki Introduces Ninja 300

Kawasaki Europe has pulled the wraps off the much-anticipated Kawasaki Ninja 300, the larger displacement replacement for the Ninja 250.

While we have not received official word on pricing, the new Ninja 300 specs are outlined on the Canadian Kawasaki website, and comes with a 12-month warranty.

The new Ninja gets an increased displacement (296cc), a new frame and wider 140mm rear tire. The Ninja 300 also comes spec with a slipper clutch and racing-style back-torque limiter. An ABS option is also available for those riders seeking additional reassurance. According to Kawasaki, its high-spec system was specifically designed for motorcycles and features the world's smallest ABS unit.

The Ninja 300 also gets brilliant styling, directly related to larger Ninja and ZZR models, a floating windscreen derived from the ZX-10R, dual headlights like the Ninja ZX-6R, sporty aluminium footpegs and a complex silencer shape (like big Ninja models). The Ninja 300 also gets modern instrumentation like an analogue-style tachometer and multi-function LCD features including fuel gauge, dual trip meters, clock and Economical Riding Indicator.

Suspension is handled by a 37mm telescopic fork that has revised damping and a softer spring rate that Kawasaki claims will both improve rider comfort on bumpy city streets and provide a firmer feel when sport riding. Add to the package a new, stiffer frame and the lightweight Ninja takes on handling characteristics of its larger cousins.

The new Ninja 300 also gets a makeover in the body department, with new built-in turn signals for a sleeker appearance, a sharper front fender, race-inspired bodywork with a larger volume that gives the 300 a larger sportbike look and feel, and a supersport-inspired fuel tank. The Ninja 300 also gets new 10-spoke wheels, similar to the larger ZX-14R model.

The Canadian model will come in Ebony, Passion Red and Lime Green/Ebony. The ABS edition also comes in a Special Edition Ebony/ Metallic Moondust Gray option.

Other rumoured changes in the works for Kawasaki 2013 include the return of the popular 636cc middleweight Ninja. Kawasaki will take over New York's Time Square to launch their 2013 motorcycle collection and team green enthusiasts will be able to see the full 2013 line-up at that time.